Oversight Committee Calls on DOT to Tackle Alarming Rise in Aviation and Rail Safety Failures
The Oversight Committee has expressed deep concern over a troubling increase in aviation and rail safety incidents and has called on the Department of Transportation (DOT) to take immediate action. In a letter addressed to DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg, the Committee highlighted unresolved recommendations and emphasized the need to restore public confidence.
The Committee on Oversight and Accountability, in a letter dated September 5, 2023, raised serious concerns about a "disturbing pattern of failures" at the DOT, which it claims have put the safety of Americans at risk. The committee pointed to data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that revealed a significant rise in runway incursions, with 1,730 incidents recorded in 2022 and 1,539 as of July 24, 2023. These numbers are on track to surpass the highest annual total in more than two decades.
The committee cited numerous aviation incidents across different airports, ranging from near collisions during takeoff and landing to fatal accidents involving ground crew members and plane engines. These failures occurred between September 2022 and June 2023, highlighting a concerning trend.
Rail safety was also brought under scrutiny, with approximately 2,000 reported incidents since the start of 2021. These included 1,310 derailments and 146 collisions, some involving hazardous materials that led to spills and necessitated extensive cleanup operations and evacuations.
Furthermore, the committee expressed alarm over a backlog of 86 unresolved recommendations from the Office of the Secretary of Transportation (OST) since President Biden's inauguration. These recommendations were intended to improve safety, efficiency, and economy across various DOT programs, including aviation and rail safety. The committee's concern over the non-resolution of these recommendations raises questions about the effectiveness of the DOT's leadership in safeguarding the American public.
Given the erosion of public confidence in air and rail safety, the committee called for a thorough investigation and prompt action. Secretary Buttigieg has been urged to facilitate a briefing and provide documents and communications related to the DOT's investigations and remedial efforts. The committee expects the requested documentation and data summarizing aviation and rail incidents to be submitted by September 19, 2023.
The Oversight Committee's demands highlight the urgent need for the DOT to address the concerning rise in aviation and rail safety failures. By taking swift action and ensuring accountability, the DOT can begin to restore public confidence and prioritize the safety of all Americans.
